Virginia City Hat Maker

What better way to commemorate your time in one of Nevada’s most historic western cities than by scoring a custom-made hat? As one of Virginia City’s most unique shopping experiences, the Virginia City Hat Maker inside the Pioneer Emporium will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

Virginia City is home to the largest silver strike in United States history. Almost overnight, it became the epicenter of power, influence, and opulence in the American West. Few people who lived here were native to Nevada, offering a window into the cultural melting pot that was drawn to the glamour of this storied boomtown.

A native of Savoie, France, hat maker Pascal Baboulin followed his dreams and interests on a journey throughout the western United States. At first, he settled in Arizona, where he began his training in the longstanding art of hat crafting. This rare skill set came naturally for Pascal, who eventually landed in Virginia City and opened his own business. Since opening his doors in 2004, Pascal has created thousands of fine hats that combine traditional European hat making techniques with more modern American practices. Every hat produced is uniquely made for the person ordering it, and is a true work of art.

Visitors can peruse a variety of different styles of hats, but don’t be surprised if Pascal picks one out for you. After all, that’s part of his skill—helping each and every visitor find the perfect style hat, just for them. Pascal offers a variety of styles, ranging from urban and western to fedoras and a special lineup for women. Best yet, he can set you up with all the essentials needed to property care for your custom hat, too.